Kratom & 7-OH Treatment

Kratom Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome: What Parents Need to Know

Posted by author-avatar
On March 20, 2026
0 comments
Newborn experiencing withdrawal symptoms being cared for by medical staff

As kratom use becomes more widespread, especially in states like Tennessee, healthcare providers are increasingly encountering a concerning issue: neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) linked to kratom exposure during pregnancy. Many individuals assume kratom is a “natural” and safer alternative to opioids, but its effects—particularly due to compounds like 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH)—can closely mimic opioid dependence.

At Nashville Addiction Clinic, we help patients understand the real risks of kratom use during pregnancy and provide safe, effective treatment options to protect both mother and child.

Safe, Private Treatment for You and Your Baby—From Home

You don’t have to risk your health—or your baby’s—by trying to manage this alone. Safe, confidential treatment is available today, right from your home.

Nashville Addiction Clinic provides evidence-based Suboxone treatment through secure telemedicine, staffed by licensed Tennessee clinicians. No clinic visits required, ever.

Register for online treatment using your TennCare Medicaid, commercial insurance, or choose a payment plan. (A sliding-scale program is also available) Click here if you’re a returning patient.

Does Kratom Cause Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome in Newborns?

Yes, kratom can cause neonatal abstinence syndrome in newborns. NAS occurs when a baby is exposed to substances in the womb and then experiences withdrawal symptoms after birth. Because kratom acts on opioid receptors in the brain, it can lead to physical dependence in both the mother and the developing baby.

Research and clinical reports have confirmed that kratom use during pregnancy can result in newborn withdrawal symptoms similar to those seen with opioid exposure.

What Is Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome from Kratom?

Neonatal abstinence syndrome from kratom is a condition where a newborn experiences withdrawal after being exposed to kratom in utero. The severity of NAS can vary depending on factors such as:

  • Frequency and duration of kratom use
  • Potency of the product (especially high 7-hydroxy content)
  • Maternal metabolism and overall health
  • Use of other substances

Because kratom products are not regulated, potency can vary widely—making it difficult to predict how severely a newborn may be affected.

Can Kratom Cause Withdrawal in Newborns?

Yes, kratom can cause withdrawal in newborns. Babies exposed to kratom during pregnancy may develop dependence and then go through withdrawal after birth when the substance is no longer present.

Common symptoms of kratom-related NAS include:

  • Excessive crying or high-pitched crying
  • Irritability and difficulty soothing
  • Tremors or shaking
  • Feeding difficulties
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Poor sleep patterns
  • Increased muscle tone

These symptoms often require medical monitoring and, in some cases, treatment in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Tired of Driving Clinics and Pharmacies? We Bring Recovery and Medications to Your Door

We know the frustrations and stigmas often associated with addiction treatment, as well as the time it takes to visit a clinic, sit in a waiting room with people you don’t know, wondering if you’re being judged, watching the clock in hopes of leaving within a few hours. Sadly, your day doesn’t end there. You then have to drive to a pharmacy to pick up your Suboxone medications, which can sometimes be met with judgement, stigma, embarrassment, and even rejection.

By utilizing our Suboxone telemedicine program and overnight medication delivery pharmacy partner, you’ll never have to visit a clinic or pharmacy again.

7-Hydroxy Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Risk

7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) significantly increases the risk of neonatal abstinence syndrome. This compound is much more potent than mitragynine and binds strongly to opioid receptors.

Many modern kratom products are enhanced to contain higher concentrations of 7-OH, which can:

  • Increase maternal dependence
  • Intensify withdrawal symptoms
  • Raise the likelihood and severity of NAS in newborns

This is why 7-hydroxy neonatal abstinence syndrome risk is a growing concern among addiction and maternal health specialists.

Does 7-OH Cause NAS in Babies?

Yes, 7-OH can contribute to NAS in babies. While kratom contains multiple active compounds, 7-OH is particularly concerning due to its opioid-like strength. Babies exposed to high levels of this compound during pregnancy are more likely to experience withdrawal symptoms after birth.

Because many users are unaware of how much 7-OH they are consuming, the risk can be higher than expected.

Kratom Use During Pregnancy and Newborn Withdrawal

Kratom use during pregnancy can directly lead to newborn withdrawal. Even individuals who use kratom for pain management or to avoid other opioids may unknowingly place their baby at risk.

Key concerns include:

  • Lack of regulation in kratom products
  • Misleading labeling of potency
  • Increased use of concentrated extracts
  • Delayed recognition of dependency

Newborn withdrawal can begin within the first few days of life and may require extended hospital stays and specialized care.

How Nashville Addiction Clinic Can Help

At Nashville Addiction Clinic, we specialize in helping patients safely manage substance use during pregnancy, including kratom and 7-hydroxy dependence.

Safe, Medically Supervised Treatment

We offer Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) when appropriate to help stabilize patients and reduce withdrawal risks. This approach can improve outcomes for both mother and baby.

Telemedicine Access Across Tennessee

Our telemedicine services make it easier for pregnant patients to receive care without the stress of travel, childcare challenges, or stigma.

Personalized, Compassionate Care

We understand that every situation is unique. Our team provides individualized treatment plans focused on safety, recovery, and long-term health.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Addressing kratom use during pregnancy as early as possible can:

  • Reduce the severity of neonatal abstinence syndrome
  • Improve birth outcomes
  • Lower the risk of complications
  • Support long-term maternal recovery

Delaying treatment increases the likelihood of more severe withdrawal symptoms in newborns.

Begin Safe, Confidential Treatment During Your Pregnancy Without Ever Leaving Home

Not sure if your insurance is accepted? Click here to verify your insurance.

Experience a safe transition from hydrocodone, oxycodone, OxyContin, heroin, fentanyl, methadone, morphine, Kratom, 7-OH (7-Hydroxy-opioids), Norcos, Percocet, Roxicodone, Vicodin, Tianeptine, Tramadol, Opana, codeine, oxymorphone, and other opioids.

If you would like to speak to someone about our telemedicine Suboxone program, please call or text us at (615) 927-7802. You can also message us securely on the Spruce Health mobile app.

FAQs About Kratom/7-OH Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome

Does kratom cause neonatal abstinence syndrome?
Yes, kratom can cause neonatal abstinence syndrome because it affects opioid receptors and can lead to dependence in both mother and baby.

Can kratom cause withdrawal in newborns?
Yes. Babies exposed to kratom during pregnancy may experience withdrawal symptoms after birth.

What is neonatal abstinence syndrome from kratom?
It is a condition where a newborn experiences withdrawal due to in-utero exposure to kratom.

Does 7-OH cause NAS in babies?
Yes. 7-hydroxymitragynine is a potent compound in kratom that increases the risk and severity of NAS.

How soon do withdrawal symptoms appear in newborns?
Symptoms typically appear within the first 24 to 72 hours after birth but can vary.

Can Nashville Addiction Clinic help with kratom use during pregnancy?
Yes. Nashville Addiction Clinic offers safe, confidential, telemedicine-based treatment options tailored to pregnant patients.

Is kratom safer than opioids during pregnancy?
No. While often marketed as natural, kratom can still cause dependence and neonatal withdrawal similar to opioids.

Get Help Before It Affects Your Baby

Kratom neonatal abstinence syndrome is a serious but preventable condition. If you or someone you love is using kratom during pregnancy, seeking help now can protect your baby’s health and improve your recovery journey.

Nashville Addiction Clinic is here to provide safe, supportive care every step of the way.

Fast Online Suboxone Registration—Treatment Delivered to Your Door
Start Today—Online Suboxone Treatment with Delivery to Your Door
Quick Online Registration for Suboxone—No Pharmacy Visits Required
Same-Day Suboxone Treatment—Register Online in Minutes
Get Suboxone Treatment Today—Fast, Simple Online Signup
Start Treatment Now—Online Registration Takes Just Minutes

You can review insurance and pricing details before scheduling, so there are no surprises. 

If you have TennCare Medicaid insurance, your treatment and medication costs are typically $0. If you have commercial health insurance, we will provide you with a treatment cost estimate before scheduling your first telemedicine appointment. If you don’t have health insurance, we offer biweekly and monthly payment plans. 

Related Articles

You’re Not Alone—Recovery Resources That Can Help

Kratom / 7-Hydroxy Addiction During Pregnancy: Risks, Symptoms, and Safe Treatment Options

Back to list
Older Kratom / 7-Hydroxy Addiction During Pregnancy: Risks, Symptoms, and Safe Treatment Options

Related Posts

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *